In a statement released through the family's lawyers, Ramsdens Solicitors, the devastated father said:

"I checked round the poolside thinking he would be hiding but devastatingly he wasn't. I found him at the far end of pool face down at the bottom. I dived in and got him out onto the poolside and screamed for help."

Rocco was pulled from the water, but his death was confirmed shortly afterwards.

Tributes from Steven and Rocco's mother Catharine read:

"We are all totally devastated by the loss of the most amazing happy joyful boy you could ever wish to meet. Rocco truly loved life and we will be left with a void forever that can never be filled. RIP buddy, we'll love you forever.’’

Rocco's parents also criticised social media users who accused the family of leaving their child unattended in the pool area while they were using the sauna or gym, saying the comments had added to their distress.